Early Career

More than IQ: How Different Types of Intelligence Matter in the Workplace

Staff Reports

About the author: My name is Sarah and I grew up in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. I graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. I majored in Management Information Systems with an option in Information Assurance and a minor in International Business. I started working at Williams in 2012 in our rotational program as an IT Analyst.

High intelligence or having a high IQ is all you need to be successful, right? As a recent college graduate with your diploma in hand, it’s easy to think you know everything, but there is so much more to being successful than having a high IQ. .

I recently had the opportunity to hear Cindy Wigglesworth, founder of Deep Change, speak at an internal meeting. She has done extensive research on the different types of intelligences and wrote the book SQ 21: The Twenty-One Skills of Spiritual Intelligence. She talked to us about the 4 key intelligences for leaders:

  1. Intelligence (IQ)
  2. Physical Intelligence (PQ)
  3. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
  4. Spiritual Intelligence (SQ)

Physical Intelligence has to do with being healthy. For example, if you are not getting enough sleep, you will not be at your best at work. Emotional Intelligence is identifying, using, understanding, and managing your emotions. The more you are aware of your emotions the better you will be able to handle situations in the work place. Cindy said “Spiritual Intelligence is the ability to behave with wisdom and compassion while maintaining inner and outer peace (Equanimity) regardless of the situation”.

All four of these intelligences are what make up a good leader, which is why I would highly recommend researching them. I know that by delving in, learning more about each and applying what I learn, I will be more well-rounded and a successful leader.

At Williams, we believe that everyone is a leader and should take ownership over their development. It is my personal responsibility to continually learn and develop my skills.  Understanding and applying these concepts will enable me to work well with others and propel Williams into the future.

It is so rewarding to work for a company that encourages me and others to take part in trainings such as these.  So, aside from your IQ, have you measured your PQ, EQ, and SQ?  I know I sure have!